constrict

verb

kən-ˈstrikt How to pronounce constrict (audio)
Definition of constrictnext
1
as in to shrink
to become smaller in size or volume through the drawing together of particles of matter the vessel constricted, thereby reducing the flow of blood

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in to compress
to reduce in size or volume by or as if by pressing parts or members together constricted the opening with a clamp

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word constrict different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of constrict are compress, condense, contract, deflate, and shrink. While all these words mean "to decrease in bulk or volume," constrict implies a tightening that reduces diameter.

the throat is constricted by a tight collar

Where would compress be a reasonable alternative to constrict?

Although the words compress and constrict have much in common, compress implies a pressing into a small compass and definite shape usually against resistance.

compressed cotton into bales

When is condense a more appropriate choice than constrict?

The words condense and constrict can be used in similar contexts, but condense implies a reducing of something homogeneous to greater compactness without significant loss of content.

condense the essay into a paragraph

When could contract be used to replace constrict?

In some situations, the words contract and constrict are roughly equivalent. However, contract applies to a drawing together of surfaces or particles or a reduction of area or length.

caused her muscles to contract

In what contexts can deflate take the place of constrict?

The words deflate and constrict are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, deflate implies a contracting by reducing the internal pressure of contained air or gas.

deflate the balloon

When might shrink be a better fit than constrict?

The meanings of shrink and constrict largely overlap; however, shrink implies a contracting or a loss of material and stresses a falling short of original dimensions.

the sweater will shrink when washed

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of constrict That said, annual revenue limits constrict its appeal. —Robert Anderson, PCMAG, 27 Feb. 2025 Washington can slowly constrict Beijing’s operational space before seeking to end the conflict on acceptable terms. —Zack Cooper, Foreign Affairs, 21 Feb. 2025 Benson Boone is wearing another constricting pair of pants. —Jack Irvin, People.com, 18 Mar. 2025 There, themes previously constricted by plot flow more freely, as if Jacobs-Jenkins is getting to a backlog of notes after the fact. —Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 17 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for constrict
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constrict
  1. shrink
  2. compress
  3. condense
  4. squeeze
Verb
  • These sprays shrink the blood vessels in your nasal passages.
    — Andrea Muraskin, NPR, 19 Apr. 2025
  • And this isn’t just a method to shrink your waistline: The pros at Buchinger say that fasting is able to improve your quality of life both now and in the future, acting as a safeguard against aging.
    — Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 18 Apr. 2025
Definition of shrink
Verb
  • Streaming services compress the audio more vigorously than is common in physical media, which can cause problems with intelligibility.
    — Samuel Axon, ArsTechnica, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Treatment for groin strains includes rest, icing, compressing the affected area, and taking pain medications.
    — Mark Gurarie, Health, 22 Apr. 2025
Definition of compress
Verb
  • All responses have been edited and condensed for clarity.
    — Liza B. Zimmerman, Forbes.com, 18 Apr. 2025
  • This conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.
    — Shannon Carpenter, CNN Money, 18 Apr. 2025
Definition of condense
Verb
  • For years, researchers have been experimenting with quantization techniques that squeeze their neural network weights into smaller memory envelopes.
    — ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 18 Apr. 2025
  • Consumer confidence has taken a nosedive in 2025 as Americans grow more concerned that inflation could spike again, and tariffs will squeeze their wallets.
    — Austin Denean, Baltimore Sun, 18 Apr. 2025
Definition of squeeze

Browse Nearby Words

constraints
constrict
constricted
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Cite this Entry

“Constrict.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constrict. Accessed 30 Apr. 2025.

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